Incorrect Replacement Passenger Air Bag Installed – 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

May 22, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V298000

Incorrect Replacement Passenger Air Bag Installed

An incorrect passenger air bag may not provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V298

Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Components AIR BAGS

Potential Number of Units Affected 747

 

Summary

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012 C250, C250 Coupe, C300, C350, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG, and C63 AMG Coupe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. An incorrect replacement front passenger air bag may have been installed.

 

Remedy

MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began July 10, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA’s number for this recall is 2020060011.

 

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

 

Check if your Mercedes-Benz has a Recall

 

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TO: Mercedes-Benz Dealer Principals, General Managers, Sales Managers, Service Managers, Parts Managers	FROM:  Gregory Gunther, Department Manager, Vehicle Compliance and Analysis, Engineering Services
RE: Recall Campaign Initial Notification Incorrect Passenger-side Airbag Module Installed MY2012 204 (C-Class)	Date: May 29, 2020

 

IMPORTANT RECALL CAMPAIGN

Please see the attached documents related to the campaign listed above.

 

Please note that all customer inquiries should be directed to the Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES.

 

Sincerely,
Gregory Gunther
Department Manager, Vehicle Compliance & Analysis

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Campaign No. :	NHTSA ID	Campaign Desc. :	Incorrect Passenger-side Airbag Module
TBA	20V298	20P2197256
This is to notify you of a new Recall Campaign regarding the installation of an incorrect passenger-side airbag  (“PSAB”) Module on 747 Model Year (MY)2012 204 (C-Class) vehicles.  The recall campaign will be visible on the www.safercar.gov website and may generate questions from customers. Affected VINs will be flagged in VMI as “PENDING” on May 29, 2020.
Background
Issue	Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012 C-Class vehicles (204 platform) which are part of the Takata recall, a replacement passenger airbag may have been installed that is not approved for the specified carlines. If an incorrect passenger airbag was installed, the airbag may not provide requisite protection, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
What We’re Doing	An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will replace the passenger airbag module on the affected vehicles.
Parts	An additional notification will be sent when the remedy is available.
Vehicles Affected
Vehicle Model Year(s)	2012
Vehicle Model	C-Class
Vehicle Populations
Total Recall Population	747
Total Vehicles in Dealer Inventory	0
Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to sell or lease any new MY12 C-Class vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.  Once the remedy is available, the vehicles will be flagged as “OPEN” and Work Instructions will be available in Star TekInfo Once the repair is complete, the vehicle may be sold or leased.  Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired.   As a matter of normal service process, please check for other repair measures which might be applicable to the vehicle(s)  Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for car rental companies to rent new MY12 C-Class vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.
Next Steps/Notes
Customer Notification Timeline	Dealers are proactively contacting affected owners. In addition, customer letters will be mailed approximately one week after the recall is launched to dealers.
AOMS/SOMS	AOMs – This recall may generate questions from your dealers. Please forward this notice to your dealers ASAP.
Rental Fleet Partners	This recall may affect vehicles in your fleet. Please contact your respective MBUSA fleet representative for further information and next steps. For repairs, please contact your preferred MBUSA dealer.
While we regret any inconvenience this may cause, MBUSA is determined to maintain a high level of vehicle quality and customer satisfaction. Please refer all customer inquiries to the Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES.

 

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TO: Mercedes-Benz Dealer Principals, General Managers, Sales Managers, Service Managers, Parts Managers	FROM:  Gregory Gunther, Department Manager, Vehicle Compliance and Analysis, Engineering Services
RE: Recall Campaign Launch Notification Incorrect Passenger-Side Airbag Module Installed MY12 C204 Coupe (C-Class)	Date: June 26, 2020

 

IMPORTANT RECALL CAMPAIGN UPDATE

Please see the attached documents related to the campaign listed above.

 

Important Note:

MBAG has determined that only C-Class Coupe Vehicles (C204.3XX) require the airbag replacement if the incorrect airbag was installed by a dealer.  If an incorrect airbag was installed in a W204 C-Class sedan vehicle (W204.0XX) and the vehicle was marked as scheduled for repair or repaired before June 13, 2020, these vehicles are added to the campaign.

For C204 C-Class coupe vehicles (C204.3XX):

• Please continue to reach out to C-Class Coupe owners who have not yet had the correct airbag replacement completed.
• The part number required for C-Class Coupe vehicles is: A 207 860 03 00 05

 

For W204 C-Class sedan vehicles (W204.0XX):

• Dealers that were able to reach owners and install the correct airbag in the C-Class sedans are now able to submit the RO against the campaign.
• VINs with ROs sent to the [email protected] inbox on or before June 13, 2020 have been added to the campaign.

 

Please note that all customer inquiries should be directed to the Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES.

Sincerely,
Gregory Gunther
Department Manager, Vehicle Compliance & Analysis

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Campaign No. :	NHTSA ID		Campaign Desc. :	Incorrect Passenger-Side Airb ag Module – Supplement
2020060011	20V298		20P9194009
This is to notify you of a Recall Campaign launch regarding the installat ion of an incorrect passenger-side airbag (“PSAB”) modu le on Model Year (MY) 2012 C204 (C-Class Coupe) and W204 (C-Class Sedans) vehicles. The recall campaign will be visible on the www.safercar.gov website and may generate questions from customers. Supplement VINs will be flagged in VMI as “OPEN” on June 26, 20 20.
Background
Issue		Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012 C-Class Coupe vehicles (C204 platform) which are part of the Takata r ecall, a replacement passenger airbag may have been installed that is not approved for the specified carlines. If an incorrect passenger airbag was installed, the airbag may not provide requisite protect ion, increasingthe risk of injury in the event of a crash.
What We‘re Doing		An authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer will replace the passenger airbag module on the affected vehicles with the correct airbag.
Parts		Parts are available and can be ordered as necessary.
Vehicles Affected
Vehicle Model Year(s)		2012
Vehicle Model		C-Class Coupes and Sedans (C204 .3XX, W204.0XX)
Vehicle Populations
Total Recall Population		640
Total Vehicles in Dealer Inventory		0
Given this notice, it is a violation of Federal law for a dealer to sell or lease any MY12 C-Class vehicles in dealer inventory covered by this notification until thevehicle has been repaired. Once the remedy is available, the vehicles will beflagged as “OPEN” and Work Instructions will beavailable in Star Teklnfo Once the repair is complete, the vehicle may be sold or leased. Loaner and demonstrator vehicles may continue to be driven, but must not be retailed until repaired. As a matter of normal service process, please check for other repair measures which might be applicable to the vehicle(s) Additionally, given this notice, it is a violation of Federal Law for car rental companies to rent new MY12 C-Class vehicles covered by this notification until the vehicle has been repaired.
Next Steps/ Notes
Customer Notification Timeline		Customer letters will be mailed on approximately Jul y 10, 2020. In addition, dealers have been proactive ly contacting affected owners.
AOMS/ SOMS		AOMs – This recall may generate questions from your dealers. Please forward this notice to your dealers ASAP.
Rental Fleet Partners		This recall may affect vehicles in your fleet. Please contact your respective MBUSA fleet representative for further information and next steps. For repairs, please contact your preferred MBUSA dealer.
While we regret any inconvenience this may cause, MBUSA is determined to maintain a high level of vehicle quality and customer satisfaction. Please refer all customer inquiries to the Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES.

 

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Campaign No.2020060011 , June 2020
Revision B 6-26-2020 added damage code

TO:	ALL MERCEDES-BENZ CENTERS
SUBJECT:	Model C-Class Coupe vehicles (C204 platform) Model Year 2012 Replace Incorrect Front Passenger-side Airbag

 

Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined  that  on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012 C-Class Coupe vehicles (C204 platform) that are part of the Takata recall, a replacement passenger airbag may have been installed by a dealer that is not approved for the specified carline. If an incorrect passenger airbag was installed, the airbag may not provide requisite protection, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will replace the passenger airbag module on the affected vehicles with the correct airbag.

 

Prior to performing this Recall Campaign:

• VMI must always be checked before performing campaigns to verify that the campaign is required on a specific vehicle. Always check for any other open campaigns, and perform accordingly.
• Please review the entire Recall Campaign bulletin and follow the repair procedure exactly as described.

 

Approximately 538 vehicles are involved.

Order No. P-RC-2020060011

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Important Note:

MBAG has determined that only C-Class Coupe Vehicles (C204.3XX) require the airbag replacement if the incorrect airbag was installed by a dealer. If an incorrect airbag was installed in a W204 C-Class sedan vehicle (W204.0XX), that VIN is only included in this campaign if the dealer completed the repair prior to June 13, 2020.

 

For C204 C-Class Coupe Vehicles (C204.3XX):

• Please continue to reach out to C-Class Coupe owners who have not yet had the correct airbag replacement completed
• The part number required for C-Class Coupe vehicles is: A 207 860 03 00 05

 

For W204 C-Class Sedan vehicles (W204.0XX):

• Dealers that were able to reach owners and install the correct airbag in the C-Class sedans are now able to submit the RO against the campaign.
• VINs with ROs sent to the [email protected]inbox on or before June 13, 2020 will be added to the campaign.

 

Note: View the passenger-side airbag replacement videos prior to performing this procedure:

• Location: The Learning Link.
• Course Code:
• X0070E-US.MTA (AKUBIS®: Passenger’s Airbag Replacement)
• Video is for reference purposes, be sure to follow work sequence and instructions in this Procedure.

Load the Mercedes-Benz PartScan App. on Apple^® iPhone^® or Android^® smart phone.

 

Note:

• For Apple^® iPhone^® Users: The MB PartScan App is designed for generations of iPhone 5s and newer. However, for optimal experience and performance, we advise that an iPhone 6 and newer be used for scanning with the MB PartScan”
• Download app from Apple^® store for iPhone^® or Google^® play for Android^® (same as any other app download) then scan the QR code below to continue download (follow on-screen instructions).
• To install and transmit the data a WiFi connection is required.
• After downloading the App, a one-time security authentication is required by means of encrypted QR code. Verification can be performed by scanning the QR code below, before using the application.
• Ensure that only authorized personnel access to the QR Code the workshop receives.
• The following e-mail address is provided in the event UHD App support is required for the Mercedes-Benz PartScan App process: [email protected]

Figure 1

 

• The PartScan App must be utilized properly for every airbag recall repair in this campaign.
• If the VIN is missing, illegible or incomplete, it must be entered manually
• The airbag barcode scan may only be skipped if the barcode is missing, illegible or incomplete.
• Never scan a “dummy” barcode to skip the entry fields – See Example below o When only thedriverairbag replacement is required, skip the passenger airbag scan by leaving fields blank.
  • When only the passenger airbag replacement is required scan and only press the passenger airbag “scan old component”.
• Always make sure the proper airbag is scanned in the respective entry field in the App (driver airbag for driver-side, passenger airbag for passenger-side)
• Part Scan Examples: Driver-side airbag only and Passenger-side airbag only scans

 

WARNING!

There is a risk of injury or death when performing testing or repair work on vehicles and when handling vehicle components. Be sure to read and observe all relevant safety instructions in WIS. This procedure must only be performed by trained personnel using proper tools and equipment.

 

Procedure 

1. Disconnect ground line from the on-board electrical system battery. 
2. Remove right A-pillar trim (A, figure 2).

Figure 2

 

3. Remove glove box housing

For basic data of model 204, see AR68.10-P-1200CW

Release inner retaining ring (figure 3) at the AUX connection towards the inside. The connection can then be removed from the glove box housing.

Pull iPod cable with rubber grommet out of glove box housing until the connector plug makes contact with the housing. Do not pull cable out of rubber grommet because it is bonded to the rubber grommet and will otherwise be damaged!

Pull out the iPod cable as far as possible and set down glove box housing on the windshield with exterior iPod cable connected (figure 4).

Figure 3

 

Figure 4

 

4. Remove air duct (B, figure 5) above the glove compartment.

Figure 5

 

5. Unclip and remove cover (C, figure 6) at the instrument panel on top.

With a sound system, also remove speaker under the cover.

Figure 6

 

6. Remove center console (AR68.20-P-2000CW).

 

7. Remove automatic climate control and operating unit. 

For basic data of model 204, see 40-P-6350CW

 

8. Remove trim (D, figure 7) around the instrument cluster.

For basic data of model 204, see AR54.30-P-6015CW.

Figure 7

 

9. Remove the two bottom threaded connections (E, figure 8) of the instrument cluster.

These screws are simultaneously fasteners for the instrument panel.

The upper two screws do not need to be removed.

 

Figure 8

 

10. Remove four screws (F, figure 9) for fastening the instrument panel

Figure 9

 

11. Disconnect electrical contacts (G, figure 10) at the front passenger airbag.

Figure 10

 

12. Remove lock nuts (H, figure 11) for the front the passenger airbag.

Lock nuts should only be replaced if they are damaged. For more info see:

AH00.00-N-0001-01A / Modification notes 27.10.2016

Figure 11

 

13. Slightly raise instrument panel at the front passenger side and remove the front passenger airbag in a downwards direction. Take special care not to crack the dashboard material.

DO NOT REMOVE THE DASHBOARD

 

14. The PartScan App must be utilized properly for every airbag recall repair in this campaign. Use the “Scan VIN” button (figure 12) to scan the vehicle identification number either by the barcode or the text field.

After scanning, compare the vehicle identification number that has been read in the app and correct any scanning errors manually.

All required data can also be read off and entered manually.

 

15. Since no driver airbag is replaced under this campaign, skip the driver airbag “Scan old/new component” barcode scan by leaving the field blank. DO NOT scan a “dummy” driver airbag bar code!
16. Scan barcodes of the removed passenger airbag using the button “Scan old component” (figure 13).

Ensure that the lower barcode (J, figure 14) is scanned.

This step can be omitted only if bar code is incomplete, illegible, or missing.

All required data can also be read off and entered manually.

 

17. Scan the barcodes of the new passenger airbag using the button “Scan new component” (figure 13).

Ensure that the lower barcode (J, figure 14) is scanned.

All required data can also be read off and entered manually.

 

18. Create a scan ID via the “Send” button (figure 15).

The generated scan ID (figure 16) must be recorded in writing in the workshop order  and then stored in a tamper-proof manner.

Figure 15 Figure 16

 

For order invoicing, it is mandatory to enter the “ID” in the comment field of the EVA / VEGA application.

ID: _ _ _ _ _ _

 

19. Carefully insert the new front passenger airbag authorized for the vehicle from below and fasten to the instrument panel with 4 nuts.

Contrary to the work instructions in WIS, it is not necessary to check the supplemental  restraint system with XENTRY/DAS following front passenger airbag replacement.

Nut of front passenger airbag at instrument panel 5 Nm.

 

20. Place instrument panel back into position and install the air ducts (K, figure 17) The air ducts are pulled out when the instrument panel is raised.

Figure 17

 

21. Assemble in reverse order.

 

22. Connect ground line to on-board electrical system battery.

 

23. Turn the transmitter key in the electronic ignition lock to position 1 and check whether the airbag indicator lamp (L, figure 18 or 19) correctly switches off after a few seconds. The SRS check is thus completely ensured after airbag replacement.

Figure 18  Figure 19

 

Special Tools

126 589 00 10 00	203 589 04 33 00	000 589 52 98 00
Screwdriver bit	Removal lever Removal lever	Electro Static Discharge (ESD) kit (or locally sourced equivalent)Electro Static Discharge (ESD) kit (or locally sourced equivalent

 

Note:

• Requested parts must be returned in accordance with the warranty parts return requirements section found in the policy and procedures manual.
• Use the attached hazmat shipping document as a guide for shipping airbags.

 

Note (regarding WIS documents referenced in this Procedure):

Replacement of parts not listed in the parts table of this Procedure are not claimable under this campaign. If replacement of additional part(s) is necessary, check coverage prior to submitting under warranty.

 

Primary Parts Information

Qty.	Part Name	Part Number
As required	Front passenger airbag Type C204 Coupe (204.3XX)	A 207 860 03 00 05

 

NOTE: Part numbers are NOT interchangeable between sedan and coupes/cabrio! 

 

Note:

• Please be aware that only the part number(s) referenced in the Campaign Bulletin is/are approved for use to repair the vehicle. Repairs performed using any other part(s) will not have been performed in accordance with the campaign. Accordingly, warranty claims submitted with reference to an improper part number(s) will be denied.

 

Warranty Information 

Damage Code	Operation Number	Labor Time (hrs.)
91 940 09 7	*	*

 

*Campaign does not reimburse for labor due to incorrect prior repair and therefore will not include an operation number with labor times. Claims will only be accepted to cover passenger airbag cost.

 

 

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URGENT – IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL 2020060011
This notice applies to your vehicle VIN:
Incorrect Passenger-Side Airbag Module Installed
NHTSA Recall #20V298

 

July, 2020

• A safety defect exists in your vehicle
• Remedy parts are now available for your vehicle.
• Schedule an appointment with your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
• This repair will be provided FREE of charge.

2020060011

 

Dear Mercedes-Benz owner:

This notice is being sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012 C-Class (204 platform) vehicles. Our records indicate that your vehicle is included in the affected population of vehicles.

What is the CONCERN?	On certain MY 2012 C-Class (204 platform) vehicles that are part of the Takata airbag recall, an incorrect replacement passenger airbag may have been installed during the recall repair that is not approved for the specified carline. If an incorrect passenger airbag was installed, the airbag may not provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
What will your DEALER DO?	An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will install the correct passenger-side airbag module on the affected vehicles. This service will be provided free of charge. We are dedicated to always delivering the best customer experience, and respect for your time is a top priority. While the minimum repair time is approximately two hours, your dealer can provide you with a better estimate of the overall time for this service visit. As a matter of the normal service process, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will also check for other repair measures which might be applicable to your vehicle and this may increase the required working time.
What should YOU DO?	Schedule an appointment immediately at your preferred authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealer. See www.mbusa.com/recall for the Dealer locator. Please mention that you are scheduling an appointment to replace the passenger-side airbag module under Recall Campaign #2020060011. You may be asked for your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which for your convenience is located above your name at the top of this letter. Impacts from COVID-19: Your health and safety remain our top priority. The Mercedes-Benz dealerships remaining open for recall repairs and service are closely following the guidelines set forth by the CDC. Free Mobile Repair at your home or business as well as vehicle pick-up and delivery may be available. Your preferred authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer can confirm availability.
Information for Owners	We encourage you to sign up for recall alerts at www.nhtsa.gov/alerts. In the event that you are no longer the vehicle owner, or have had a change of address, please complete the reverse side and return the updated information in the enclosed envelope. If this is a leased vehicle and the lessor and registered owner receive this notice, please forward this information by first class mail to the lessee within 10 business days to comply with Federal Regulations.

 

To find the most convenient authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer from your smartphone, scan the QR code to the left.

Should you have any questions or difficulty regarding this Recall Campaign, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. If for any reason a dealer is unable to remedy your situation, we are always happy to hear from you. Please contact us at 1-(800) FOR- MERCEDES (1-800-367-6372).

If an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for any reason is unable to remedy the situation without charge, or within a reasonable amount of time, pursuant to law 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301, you may submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590 or call the toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.

We apologize for any inconvenience this situation may cause you, but your safety is of utmost concern to Mercedes-Benz. Sincerely,

 

IMPORTANT VIN:

If for any reason YOU NO LONGER OWN THIS VEHICLE OR have a CHANGE OF ADDRESS, please COMPLETE THE SECTION BELOW, place in the ENCLOSED ENVELOPE, and DROP IN ANY MAIL BOX. If possible, provide the name and address of the present owner so that we may contact them.

 

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4 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKE	MODEL	YEAR
MERCEDES BENZ	C250	2012
MERCEDES BENZ	C300	2012
MERCEDES BENZ	C350	2012
MERCEDES BENZ	C63 AMG	2012

 

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10 Associated Documents

Recall Acknowledgement

RCAK-20V298-8323.pdf 244.794KB

 

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Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – Recall Campaign Launch Notification Incorrect Passenger-Side Airbag Module Installed

RCMN-20V298-0312.pdf 2447.664KB

 

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Defect Notice 573 Report

RCLRPT-20V298-6575.PDF 217.205KB

 

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Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – Recall Campaign Supplement Incorrect Passenger-Side Airbag Module Installed

RCMN-20V298-0499.pdf 3083.41KB

 

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Recall 573 Report – Amendment 1

RCLRPT-20V298-3204.PDF 217.425KB

 

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Remedy Instructions and TSB – Redacted

RCRIT-20V298-9907.pdf 2437.585KB

 

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ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)

RCONL-20V298-6040.pdf 293.94KB

 

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Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)- Recall Campaign Initial Notification Incorrect Passenger-side Airbag Module Installed

RCMN-20V298-2690.pdf 124.851KB

 

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Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-4

RCLQRT-20V298-3551.PDF 211.249KB

 

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Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2020-3

RCLQRT-20V298-9051.PDF 211.148KB

 

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Latest Recalls Documents

https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=20V298&docType=RCL

 

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Last update on 2026-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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